House Speaker Mike Johnson is currently considering different strategies for dealing with an impending government shutdown deadline. The approach he chooses will have significant implications on the likelihood of a shutdown occurring in just 11 days. One option under consideration is a “clean” government funding bill that would easily pass and reach President Biden’s desk. However, other ideas, such as pairing a funding bill with immigration measures or a “laddered” bill, would likely be blocked by Democrats and increase the chances of a shutdown.
Johnson plans to gather input in a closed-door House GOP meeting on Tuesday where Republicans will discuss their plans. While he has been cautious about revealing his strategy, he has acknowledged that a short-term solution will be necessary as Congress works through the larger appropriations process. He stated in a press conference last week, “We are running out of time [and] may not get this done by November 17.”
One approach that could be taken is a “clean CR” (continuing resolution) that would push the deadline into 2024 without any additional provisions. Johnson has expressed openness to this approach and campaigned on it during his run for speaker. However, it remains to be seen if hard-right Republicans will try to block him, as former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy faced backlash from far-right Republicans after pushing through a government funding bill with Democratic support.
Two other options on the table involve demanding concessions from Democrats, which are likely to be rejected. One approach would pair government funding with Republican wins on immigration, while another would demand policy concessions, such as cutting federal spending. A third option is a “laddered CR” that would extend funding for different agencies for different periods of time. However, Democrats are expected to reject all of these approaches.
Both sides agree that the main battle over government funding will occur in the new year when lawmakers aim to complete the larger appropriations process for the entire fiscal year. Johnson, who has been in the speaker’s chair for less than two weeks, has promised to be ready for the upcoming fights. The outcome of these negotiations will shape the future of government funding and the functioning of the federal government.
